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Pharmacy

Electrical or Manual Toothbrush?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you can clean your teeth well whether you use an electrical toothbrush or a manual one. The key is having good technique. Your dentist or hygienist can show you what you need to do to make sure you’re doing everything you can for the health of your teeth and gums.

People with arthritis or other problems with their hands or arms may benefit the most from electrical toothbrushes. Your dentist can help you select the best brush for you.

And make sure that whatever brush you use has the ADA’s seal of approval. The ADA has strict approval criteria that products must meet before receiving the seal.

Source: American Dental Association

Gingivitis Equipment
If you’ve had gum disease, taking extremely good care of your teeth and gums and regular visits to the dentist are the ways to improve your chances of getting your gums healthy—and keeping them that way. What kind of “tools” do you need for your daily dental program?

A soft-bristled toothbrush in good condition (bristles should not be frayed)

Dental floss

Interdental cleaners if your dentists recommends them

Be sure to brush twice a day and use your floss or interdental cleaner once a day. Talk with your dentist or hygienist about proper technique for cleaning and flossing. And visit your dentist regularly so you get your professional cleanings as often as you need to.

Source: Journal of the American Dental Association, September 2001

Treating Sinus Infection
If you or your child truly have a sinus infection (sinusitis), your doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic. But keep in mind that often, people think they have a sinus infection when really all they have is a cold virus, which doesn’t get better with an antibiotic.

Generally, a sinus infection is present if there is a runny nose, post nasal drip and/or a daytime cough that may get worse at night AND if the symptoms last more than 10 to 14 days. Even then, it could still be a cold virus, especially if the symptoms are slowly improving. Your doctor will have to make the diagnosis.

You can treat a cold virus with over-the-counter medications—decongestants, cough suppressants, etc.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

Treating a Burn
Burns fall into three categories: first, second and third degree.

A first degree burn is what’s called “superficial.” It’s similar to a sunburn. The skin is red and sore. You can usually treat this kind of burn yourself, with aloe vera lotion or the anti-bacterial creams and lotions that are available in drug stores.

Second and third degree burns should be seen by a doctor. Second degree burns are more painful and can cause blistering. Third degree burns result in skin death. The skin looks pale, and sometimes there may be blackish skin around the edge of the burn.

Things NOT to do to a burn:

Do not apply butter or oil

Do not apply ice

Coenzyme Q10 and Heart Health
If you’re interested in investigating some alternative therapies that can be good for your heart, talk with your doctor about whether coenzyme Q10 might be beneficial for you. Co Q10 is

Made by the body naturally

Helps cells to produce energy

Acts as an antioxidant (a substance that prevents damage caused by free radicals)

Levels of coenzyme Q10 in the body tend to decrease with age. Some researchers believe that this substance can boost the immune system, improve some heart conditions and help fight cancer, among other uses.